Want a 3D printer that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg?

Kickstarter goal for upcoming 3D printer The Micro by M3D has already exceeded US$1 million; device to cost around US$200

3D printed backdrop and podium sold separately. Image credit: M3D

3D printing is a cool concept, but available printers are bulky and extremely expensive. Which is why a startup called M3D may be circumventing these 3D printing problems with its latest invention: The Micro.

According to its Kickstarter page, The Micro is a 3D printer that consumers can use right out of its packaging and will cost around US$200 to US$300. Just plug it in, find a model template, then hit print to see your 3D work get printed in front of your eyes. It looks like a small hollow square, with all the 3D printing results coming out from the center. This helps reduce shipping, weight and material costs at the company’s end.

“We’ve built The Micro with reliability, consistency, and accessibility in mind,” the Kickstarter description said, ” Micro Motion Technology is a sensor and feedback system built into the print head, providing auto-leveling and auto-calibration.”

The 3D printer uses Micro filament spools or standard filament spools for its insides, though savvy print techheads can use PLA or ABSs. M3D said that Micro filament spools allow people to print with more materials and colors, and they’re easy to carry around.

As for software options, it’s fully touchscreen-capable and comes with a simple interface. “It allows you to search and browse countless objects online, organising 3D models you’ve downloaded into an easy to view library. Just pick a model, drag it into the printer, adjust the model if needed, and hit <print>. Software shouldn’t be a barrier to 3D printing, and it’s our goal to make The Micro accessible to everyday users,” it further said.

So how’s the Kickstarter for this ambitious project going? With 28 days left, the page has garnered a huge sum of US$1,547,179, exceeding its pledge of US$50,000. That shouldn’t come as a surprise, as people will jump onto the bandwagon at any product that simplifies a unique and costly concept like 3D printing. Readers who seem convinced by this prospect can pledge on the Kickstarter page. If you still need convincing, check out the video below to watch the magic happen right out of a box that may remind people of the Weighted Companion Cube.

If you want an elaborate answer on who would win in a fight between Ultraman and Godzilla, Jonathan Toyad is your man. A six-year veteran in the game journalism industry, he did words and videos for outlets such as GameSpot, GameAxis, IGN and Stuff.TV. Fears coyotes and scorched earths.